A burger, some chips and a place called Harry's

Don't you hate it when you feel like you've stumbled upon a hidden gem, only to learn that everyone else already knows about it?

That's what it was like for me when I first went to Harry's Place in Colchester. OK, apparently it's an institution that even the Travel Channel knows about (Harry's was recently featured in the show "Burger Land"), but it still felt like only those in the know would make the drive up from the shoreline to get there.

We had places to be and other food to eat, so my dining companion and I kept it simple, with a cheeseburger and some house-made potato chips. Simple, yet utterly delicious. The cheeseburger ($3.79), on a potato roll, was oozy and juicy, with just the right amount of onions, tomatoes, lettuce and two slices of American cheese just shy of their melting point.

I'm a huge fan of homemade potato chips, and Harry's did not disappoint. Crunchy and tan but not burnt, I could have eaten several batches if given the chance.

The menu is pretty expansive, and I'm eager to try Harry's other offerings, including their broccoli cheddar nuggets and mini corn dogs. I mean, who doesn't want some mini corn dogs on a hot summer day?

We ate on the picnic tables out front, but next time I think I'll sit out back, under the trees and farther away from the road. Summer has never tasted so good.